Are You Registered To Vote? How To Vote In Ireland
We have a question for you, are you registered to vote? We’re asking because there are a number of referendums scheduled to happen in Ireland over the next few years. In oder to have your say on important issues you need to make sure that you are registered to vote.
Today, Wednesday the 8th of November, is the annual National Day of Voter Registration. The National Youth Council of Ireland and SpunOut.ie have joined together to encourage young people to register to vote before the deadline on November 25th.
James Doorley, Deputy Director of the National Youth Council of Ireland said,
“It’s so important that young people register to vote, to ensure that they can make their voices heard when elections and referendums take place. Excellent work has been done in the last number of years to get young people on the electoral register. However, with over 61,000 young people turning 18 and becoming eligible voters in the last 12 months alone we need to work continually to ensure all are registered.”
Who can vote?
In order to vote in a referendum in Ireland, you must be:
- Over 18
- An Irish citizen
- On the electoral register
It’s important to note that if you turn 18 on or before February 15th 2018, you can still apply to be included on the register before the deadline.
How do I check to see if I’m registered to vote?
We urge you to check the register now to see if you are registered to vote. To check if you’re already on the register, visit checktheregister.ie. You can do this up until the 25th of November. Now, some people do seem to be automatically added to the register, but don’t take the chance. It might not be done for you so make it your business to check.
How do I register?
You can download the RFA1 form here. Simply fill it out and send it or drop it into your local county or city council. If you prefer paper you can pick up a form in your local post office or public library. Just make sure to send it off before November 25th.
If you won’t be 18 by February 15th ask your parents, sibling, grandparents and friends if they are registered to vote and remind them to check the register.
Want to know more? Click here for more information about registering to vote.